FBI Raids Ducati’s North America Office

There are multiple reports that Ducati’s North America Office has been raided by the FBI.  According to stories on Roadracing World and Asphalt and Rubber, armed agents have searched Ducati’s Mountain View offices.  In addition, it is being reported that the homes of some high-level Ducati employees were also searched.

The FBI has not commented on the specific reasons for the raid.  However, posts in the Bay Area Rider’s Forum and sources who spoke with Asphalt and Rubber say that the FBI searched for evidence of financial crime.

In speaking with Roadracing World, FBI spokesperson Katherine Zackel said:

“I can confirm that FBI San Francisco was at that location on December 17, 2020, to conduct court-authorized law enforcement activity. As of today’s date, no public records are available. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, I cannot comment further at this time.”

Eyewitnesses who spoke to Roadracing World said about 30 armed agents entered Ducati’s facility to conduct the search.  However, Asphalt and Rubber says far fewer FBI agents were involved in the raid.

Due to COVID-19 considerations, there were only two people in the office at the initial time of the raid.

According to Asphalt and Rubber, Ducati’s Marketing Director Phill Read reportedly said:

“…it is Ducati North America’s practice to cooperate fully with inquiries from government agencies.  As part of that cooperation, Ducati North America does not comment on those inquiries.”

Until more information emerges, it’s unclear whether the search is related to Ducati or a third party.  Often, crimes of a financial nature can take months or years to conclude.  We’ll keep you updated as new information becomes available.

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